Oregon State University – Cascades is seeking proposals from consultant candidates with the skills and experience to research, evaluate and design a bachelor of science degree in nursing for the Bend campus.
The proposed nursing program is intended for students who already possess a registered nursing degree and license, and seek the career advancement opportunities provided by a bachelor’s degree. The proposed degree program will dovetail with the two-year nursing program at Central Oregon Community College, as well as other community college nursing programs.
Nationwide and in Central Oregon healthcare leaders are working to increase the percentage of nurses who attain a bachelor’s degree, so that they can support the increased demand for care created by health care reform and advance improvements in an increasingly complex health system.
Discussions to develop a nursing program at OSU-Cascades included partners at COCC, as well as the St. Charles Health System, and focused in particular on regional healthcare needs. St. Charles currently has 185 open nursing positions.
Graduates of the OSU-Cascades’ proposed degree program will help healthcare organizations meet the increased demand for skilled nurses who are prepared to deliver care and contribute to management teams and in leadership roles.
The selected consultant candidate will develop curriculum and staffing plans for the new degree program, and usher it through the academic approval process. University officials anticipate the program will launch following a two-year development period and the appropriate approvals.
Candidate’s proposals will be accepted through January 6, 2017. To view the complete request for proposal, visit http://bid.oregonstate.edu/opportunity/view/22950.
About OSU-Cascades: Oregon State University’s campus in Bend, Ore. features outstanding faculty in degree programs that reflect Central Oregon’s vibrant economy and abundant natural resources. Nearly 20 undergraduate majors, 30 minors and options, and four graduate programs include computer science, energy systems engineering, kinesiology, hospitality management, and tourism and outdoor leadership. OSU-Cascades expanded to a four-year university in fall 2015; its new campus opened in fall 2016.